Therapeutic Radiologic Technologist - Radiation Oncology at the Washington DC VA Medical Center

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is dedicated to providing comprehensive and compassionate care to the nation's Veterans. At the Washington DC VA Medical Center, a vital opportunity exists for a skilled and dedicated Therapeutic Radiologic Technologist specializing in Radiation Oncology. This full-time position, operating at the GS-10 grade level, offers a competitive salary and the chance to be part of a team committed to excellence in healthcare. If you are a certified professional with a passion for patient care and advanced medical technology, this role presents a significant opportunity to advance your career while serving those who have served our country.

About the Agency: Department of Veterans Affairs

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is the largest integrated healthcare system in the United States, committed to fulfilling President Lincoln's promise to care for those who have served in the nation's military. The VA operates through a network of hospitals, medical centers, and outpatient clinics, providing a wide range of healthcare services. The VA's core values – Integrity, Commitment, Advocacy, Respect, and Excellence (I CARE) – guide its mission to serve Veterans with dignity and compassion. The Washington DC VA Medical Center is a key facility within this network, offering specialized services and contributing to the overall well-being of Veterans in the region.

Job Responsibilities

As a Therapeutic Radiologic Technologist in Radiation Oncology, you will play a critical role in the treatment of cancer patients. Your responsibilities will encompass a wide range of clinical and technical duties, ensuring the precise and safe delivery of radiation therapy.

Key responsibilities include:

• Patient Treatment Delivery: Administer ionizing radiation treatments from simple to highly complex, as prescribed by the radiation oncologist, using advanced treatment planning systems and linear accelerators.
• Quality Assurance: Perform daily, weekly, and monthly quality assurance (QA) procedures on all treatment machines and CT scanners to ensure optimal performance and safety. Monitor and document output levels, alerting appropriate staff to any deviations from set parameters.
• Patient Care and Communication: Demonstrate a thorough understanding of the psychosocial aspects of cancer care. Orally communicate exam preparations, special orders, and treatment protocols to patients, families, and healthcare team members.
• Equipment Operation: Skillfully operate complex and technical equipment, including linear accelerators (e.g., Varian True Beam), patient management systems (e.g., ARIA), record and verify systems, electronic portal imaging, 3-D conformal radiation therapy, intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT), On-Board Imaging (OBI), Cone Beam CT (CBCT), and Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy (SBRT).
• Simulation and Planning: Perform patient simulations using CT scanners, ensuring accurate patient positioning, designing custom immobilization devices, and transferring data precisely for treatment planning.
• Record Keeping: Maintain accurate patient records, including chart reviews and daily treatment documentation, utilizing electronic medical records (EMR) and record and verify systems.
• Radiation Safety: Adhere strictly to radiation safety principles and protocols, ensuring the well-being of patients, staff, and the public.
• Collaboration: Work closely with radiation oncologists, dosimetrists, physicists, and other healthcare professionals to ensure coordinated and effective patient care.

Requirements

To be considered for this position, applicants must meet the following fundamental requirements:

• U.S. Citizenship: Applicants must be U.S. citizens.
• Education: Completion of a program in therapeutic radiologic technology, evidenced by a certificate or an associate's or higher degree accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT) or other recognized accrediting bodies. A subsequent 12-month program in therapeutic radiologic technology is also required.
• Certification: Current certification by the American Registry for Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) in Radiation Therapy (ARRT (T)) is mandatory.
• English Proficiency: Must possess proficient spoken and written English skills.
• Background Investigation: Ability to successfully pass a background and security investigation.
• Physical Examination: Must pass a pre-employment physical evaluation.
• Drug Screening: Applicants tentatively selected will be subject to urinalysis for illegal drug use.
• Trial Period: A 1 or 2-year trial period may be required upon selection.

Grandfathering Provision

Individuals employed in VHA in this occupational series prior to the effective date of the qualification standard may be considered to have met qualification requirements based on their employment history. Specific provisions apply to reassignments, promotions, and demotions within the series for grandfathered employees.

Salary Overview

This position is graded at the GS-10 level. The annual salary range for this position is $108,185 to $140,632. The specific salary will be determined based on the qualifications and experience of the selected candidate.

Benefits

As a federal employee with the Department of Veterans Affairs, you are eligible for a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your well-being and professional growth. While specific details may vary, typical benefits include:

• Health Insurance: Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) program offers a variety of plans.
• Paid Time Off: Generous annual (vacation) leave and sick leave accrual, based on years of federal service.
• Retirement: Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) basic benefit plan, Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with agency contributions.
• Life Insurance: Federal Employees' Group Life Insurance (FEGLI).
• Professional Development: Opportunities for continuing education and career advancement.
• Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP): This position is eligible for the EDRP, which can provide student loan payment reimbursement up to $200,000 over a five-year period, subject to eligibility and program approval.

For more detailed information, please visit the VA careers benefits page: http://www.vacareers.va.gov/why-choose-va/benefits/index.asp

Application Steps

Applying for this position is a straightforward process through the USAJOBS platform:

1. Visit USAJOBS: Go to www.usajobs.gov and create an account or log in to your existing account.
2. Find the Announcement: Search for the Therapeutic Radiologic Technologist - Radiation Oncology position (Position ID: CBTF-13087566-27-WE-Charlie) at the Washington DC VA Medical Center.
3. Complete the Questionnaire: Answer all questions in the occupational questionnaire accurately and completely.
4. Submit Required Documents: Upload all necessary supporting documents, including your resume, professional certification, and any other relevant documentation as specified in the 'Required Documents' section.
5. Submit Application: Ensure your entire application package is submitted by the closing date of December 31, 2026, at 11:59 PM ET.

Application Tips

To maximize your chances of success, consider the following:

• Detailed Resume: Craft a comprehensive resume that clearly outlines your experience, skills, and accomplishments in radiation oncology. Use keywords from the job announcement.
• Document Verification: Ensure all required documents, such as ARRT(T) certification and any transcripts (if applicable), are current and readily available for upload.
• Answer Questionnaire Carefully: Your responses to the occupational questionnaire are crucial. Be specific and honest, aligning your experience with the job requirements.
• Veteran Preference: If you are a Veteran eligible for preference, ensure you claim it and submit the correct documentation (DD-214, SF-15) to receive consideration.
• Review Thoroughly: Before final submission, proofread your entire application for any errors or omissions.

This Therapeutic Radiologic Technologist - Radiation Oncology position at the Washington DC VA Medical Center offers a rewarding career opportunity to provide essential healthcare services to Veterans. With a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits, and the chance to work with advanced technology, this role is ideal for a motivated and experienced professional. Take the next step in your career and contribute to the VA's noble mission of serving those who have sacrificed for our nation.